Wearing Artwork

This is a ring I have worn nearly every day for a number of years now. Given as a gift while I was in my teens, it features part of the cherubim detail found on Raphael's early 16th-century painting the Sistine Madonna.


While the recognizable cherubim have become a pop culture mainstay, I have always preferred to admire the painting as a whole. I love the grace that radiates from Raphael's work, replete with soft lines and soft color. It was during my teenage years that I proclaimed Raphael as my favorite Italian Renaissance artist. I have been fortunate enough to see some of his unmatched mastery in person while on a trip to Italy in 2003. Housed in Room 26 of the Uffizi Gallery in Florence is a small collection of paintings owing their existence to this great master. A revelry for my eyes, I strolled from painting to painting making sure not to forget the moment. I haven't, and often look back on my delightful afternoon with the Uffizi with laughter. You see, I was only 17 at the time and under strict orders to "remain with your group at all times!" and "remember you are in a foreign country!" Well, as my group casually strolled past Botticelli's The Birth of Venus, I remained transfixed there under the painting's majesty for nearly 15 minutes - I couldn't help myself nor give up the opportunity to view this encyclopedia page come to life. It was then, after the Botticelli-admiring portion of my soul was full, that I made my way, alone, to see the works of Raphael entrusted to the Uffizi. I hope that someday future travels will lead me to other museums and galleries where his paintings are present.

Do you have a favorite artist and/or period in art history? A favorite painting? Let me know, I love to see what moves people!